Discover Monaghan Masterclasses, a collection of unique hands-on experiences led by local experts, makers and craftspeople. Perfect for a day trip from Dublin or Belfast, or as part of a relaxing Monaghan getaway.
Sustainable Food Masterclass, with Gareth Conlon
Gareth is Co-Founder and Director of Síolta Chroí, an award-winning regenerative farm and education centre based just outside Carrickmacross focused on sustainability, regenerative living, and transformative learning.
Síolta Chroí, which translates as ‘seeds of the heart’ offers a range of courses and retreats including permaculture, regenerative agriculture, food forest design, mushroom cultivation, traditional bread-baking, cheese-making and more.
About Gareth
Gareth’s background in development education led to him discovering a deep passion for permaculture and how it intersects with education and community. His work is grounded in the belief that meaningful change needs to happen through both personal and collective action.
Gareth is an alumni of the highly competitive Social Entrepreneurs Ireland Impact Programme.
What to expect from a masterclass with Gareth
Billed as more than just workshops, Gareth describes courses at Síolta Chroí as “embodied learning experiences”. Visitors learn in a unique education centre built from straw bale, demonstrating sustainable building in practice rather than just theory.
Experiences take place within their Ecosystem Regeneration Demonstration Centre, where participants can see first-hand what is possible when we work with nature rather than against it.
Every aspect of the experience is grounded in real-world examples of regenerative food production, biodiversity enhancement, and sustainable living. Visitors leave not only with practical skills and knowledge, but also with a renewed sense of hope, inspiration, and possibility for creating a healthier, more resilient future for people and the planet.
Courses vary in length but typically run from 10am-4pm, and include full teaching with an expert tutor; guided activities; a healthy, nutritious and delicious meal sourced from the land, where possible; and tea and coffee throughout the day.
While in Carrickmacross
Extend your visit to Carrickmacross and stop by the Carrickmacross Lace Gallery , home to the world-famous lace which has adorned the wedding dresses of royals; Carrickmacross Workhouse , a heritage centre with an evocative tour led by passionate guides.
In nearby Inniskeen, the Patrick Kavanagh Centre is not to be missed; meanwhile, Brehon Brewhouse, is a micro-brewery set on a working dairy farm. See circularity in action here, as spent hops from the beer production are used to feed the cattle.
Eco Travel in Monaghan
Síolta Chroí works closely with local food growers and artisan producers, including bread-baking workshops with Matilda’s, an award-winning bakery in Carrickmacross, and fermentation workshops with Bia Cultures , based in Ballybay.
Why not visit the beautiful Ballybay Wetlands , a brilliant showcase of the County’s stunning biodiversity.
In Carrickmacross, the newly established ‘sensory garden’ and ‘eco meadow’ areas are perfect places to enjoy a picnic and spot birds and bugs in their natural habitat.
Further afield in the north of the County, enjoy the unspoilt natural surroundings of Sliabh Beagh.
Offering easy access from both Dublin and Belfast, Síolta Chroí and Carrickmacross makes for a handy day trip or short break destination .
The Practicalities
Courses are designed for groups of up to 15 participants, with special tours for groups bookable upon request.
All backgrounds and skill levels are very welcome!
Activities take place in all seasons and participants are advised to wear clothing appropriate for the weather and to bring wellies.
How to Book?
A tiered pricing structure ensures fair affordable access for all, from €90 (reduced tier) to ‘supporting tier’ of €150.
Make a Stay of It
Choose from hostel, hotel and B&B accommodation in nearby Lough Egish and in the market town of Carrickmacross (10 minutes drive away). Browse Failte Ireland-approved accommodation options in County Monaghan here .